Weavers roc Weaving artists to celebrate, share their craft Saturday

January 2, 2014

The Char-Lee Weavers membership elected to offer a theme for their 11th annual Roc Day celebration set for Saturday, Jan. 4.

The theme is "Dancing with the Scarves" for which each exhibitor displays a woven or dyed scarf in addition to their many other creations. More than 50 weaving artists have registered for the event, which runs from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Cape Coral Library on Mohawk Parkway.

"We have about the same number of exhibitors, maybe a little more than last year," said Char-Lee Weavers vice president Susan Hedge. "We held a workshop at which some of us made silk scarves, and I think we actually are going to try to dance with them."

Roc Day, also known as St. Distaff's Day, is an ancient tradition dating back to medieval times. It was celebrated on the 12th day after Christmas. Women would bring out their spinning wheels and weaving equipment which had been put away for the holidays. Roc refers to a distaff, which is a part of the spinning wheel on which hangs the flax, or tow.

Likewise, Char-Lee members bring out their spinning wheels, weavers and several looms to demonstrate to the public. People will be able to try out spinning andweaving for themselves as well as make a simple weaving process known as "God's Eye," which is two sticks, a cross and yarn that resembles a diamond. Many people hang them on Christmas trees as ornaments.

Among the many forms of woven items on exhibit include purses, wall hangings, triaxial weavings, table linens and runners, jackets, felting, sculptures and scarves.

The Char-Lee Weavers meet monthly through the winter months offering workshops where they hone their skills and learn new techniques, offer programs and other gatherings. Membership is open to anyone interested in weaving or fiber arts. Information about the guild will be available at the Roc Day.

"It's completely free and we always have a big crowd," said Hedge. "We will have another interesting program on the third Tuesday in January for sitting garments, where we start weaving fabric for clothing."